Typhoon didn't stop graduate's degree dream
Amanda Jones
14 April 2014: For Teddy Cesar R Morados Jr, from the Philippines, graduating with a Bachelor of Nursing from the University of Canberra was a special moment and “a dream come true”.
“I wanted to give myself a future, utilise my profession as a nurse and help my family. All of these dreams were realised when my relatives in Australia opened their doors and informed me about the possibility of studying at the University of Canberra,” the 23-year-old said.
While studying at the University, his family home was struck by Typhoon Haiyan and all their possessions were lost as well as their family business – a corn and rice factory his mother inherited from her parents. Despite the hard times, Mr Morados continued his studies to be able to support them in the future.
“Although we lost our house, our rice and corn factory and our corn plantation was flooded, these are material things which can be replaced and rebuilt. I am lucky because my family is safe and well, our normal daily routine has resumed and our house is nearly rebuilt. I can’t wait to go back home and see them,” he said.
Mr Morados thanked the Australian Government for providing medical support, basic needs and financial aid to the Philippines following the disaster. He’s also grateful for the support provided by the University during this time including continued support, counselling and phone calls home.
He said some of the best things about studying at the University included state-of-the-art technology and facilities, helpful staff, flexible learning and “a quality Australian nursing education which I will be forever grateful for”.
 |
|
Teddy Morados Jr graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing from the University of Canberra. Photo: Michelle McAulay |
He has already put these skills into practice working as a registered nurse in an aged care facility in the nation’s capital.
“Work has been very challenging, fun and a good avenue for learning new nursing skills. I started working as an assistant in nursing, and then I became a care supervisor, administrative assistant and now a registered nurse.”
Mr Morados will also return to the Philippines next week to speak to prospective students about studying nursing at the University of Canberra.
He said the best advice he can give new students is “to be friendly to everyone, say the first ‘hello’ and build connections”.
“I came to UC by myself but by the end of my degree I had made lots of new friends who are all very kind,” he said.
“I would like to thank UC for giving me the opportunity to experience Australian culture and the educational experience of a lifetime.”
Read more University of Canberra graduation stories:
Canberra CEO awarded honorary degree
Honorary degree for first ACT Chief Minister
Alumna Alison's amazing Sydney adventure
Passion for nursing leads to PhD
UC sports grad now coaching in Japan
Graduate explores Indigenous identity
Mainstream music biz off key for Indigenous acts
Top Indigenous grad wins UC medal
Grad’s anatomy: from classroom to mortuary
Hakim hopes to help others
Olympic grads dive into education
